Jorryn Panjasuran walked into an Emeris Durban North Open Day in Grade 12 with zero coding experience. Two years later, he's holding the Faculty of Science and Technology Excellence Award – Full Stack Impact Award 2025.
The award was handed out at the campus's Student Top Achiever Awards, which recognised 98 undergraduate and postgraduate students across various faculties for academic excellence, dedication, and contributions to campus life.
Panjasuran, now in his second year of an IIE Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Application Development, also serves as President of Emeris Voice — the campus student body. The award didn't just measure his grades. It factored in his tutoring, student leadership, community involvement, and even his hockey and gym sessions.
"The award represents much more than academic achievement. It reflects the late nights, balancing my studies with tutoring, student leadership, campus events and hockey and the support I've received along the way," he said.
His journey into tech started almost by accident. After attending the Faculty of Science and Technology presentation at the open day, something clicked.
"I had no background in coding, but after attending the Faculty of Science and Technology presentation, I left with a strong feeling that this was where I was meant to be. Technology suddenly felt exciting, creative and useful, and I realised it was a field where I could solve problems, build things and help people," he recalled.
Panjasuran described receiving the award as a full-circle moment. "It reminds me that sometimes the path you didn't plan for is the one that ends up shaping you the most," he said.
He also contributed towards his own tuition fees — an experience that deepened his appreciation for the opportunity to study. Between student leadership, outreach initiatives, tutoring, hockey, gym, and friends, he found ways to stay grounded while pushing for excellence.
For students hoping to follow a similar path, Panjasuran's advice is simple: consistency beats perfection.
"Academic success isn't about being perfect or knowing everything from day one. It's about being consistent, asking questions, using the support around you and not giving up when things get difficult," he said.
Tammy Vermaak, Head of Academics at Emeris Durban North, said the annual awards recognise students who use their knowledge to make meaningful contributions beyond the lecture room. The ceremony's keynote speaker, Dr André Abrahams, Executive Dean: Academics at Emeris, encouraged students to remain humble and lead with kindness.
Panjasuran's story is proof that passion, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new challenges can open doors once thought impossible. From a student with no coding background to a recognised leader in technology and campus life, his journey serves as a reminder that success often begins with taking a chance on something new.